For Asian people, each risk category may include lower BMIs
than those listed in the table.

A BMI under 18.5 is considered
unhealthy. There is risk that you are not getting sufficient nutrition
(malnutrition). Complications of malnutrition include anemia, nutrient
deficiency, heart irregularities, loss of menstrual periods in women
(amenorrhea), cavities, and osteoporosis.

Related Information

References

Citations

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National
Institutes of Health (2000). The Practical Guide: Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Adults (NIH Publication No. 00-4084). Available online:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/obesity/prctgd_c.pdf.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National
Institutes of Health (2000). The Practical Guide: Identification, Evaluation, and Treatment of Overweight and Obesity in Adults (NIH Publication No. 00-4084). Available online:
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/obesity/prctgd_c.pdf.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use.
How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.